Head of NASA Threatens to Ground Every Single Commercial Flight Before Thanksgiving

[Elderberry]

Futurism By Victor Tangermann Nov 3, 2025

"We won't let people travel."

Transportation secretary Sean Duffy, who’s also serving as NASA’s interim administrator, threatened to ground all commercial flights in the United States ahead of American Thanksgiving — some of the busiest air travel days of the year.

An ongoing federal government shutdown has put a massive strain on flight operations since it kicked off on October 1, with air traffic controllers missing paychecks and even being forced to take on second jobs to make ends meet. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) pleaded with lawmakers last week to end the shutdown, following major delays and cancellations caused by staffing shortages.

In baffling remarks during a CNBC interview today, Duffy said he may end up grounding all commercial flights if the shutdown ends up impacting air safety.

More: https://futurism.com/advanced-transport/head-nasa-ground-every-flight-thanksgiving

[Weird Tolkienish Figure]

I remember him from MTV "Road Rules".

[Wingnut]

That would be cool.  Just like after 9/11.  Peace.

[mountaineer]

In baffling remarks during a CNBC interview today, Duffy said he may end up grounding all commercial flights if the shutdown ends up impacting air safety

Why is that considered "baffling"? He's trying to protect the public while control towers are short-staffed. There's nothing baffling about trying to prevent airline crashes. Thank goodness he cares about safety.

And why did the publication refer to him as the head of NASA, when he clearly is the Transportation Secretary and the story is about his responsibilities as secretary, and nothing to do with space travel. The temporary NASA appointment is irrelevant to his decisions about airline safety. I find that editorial choice baffling! 

[Wingnut]

 See the USA in a Chevrette  Drive don't fly.

[libertybele]

See the USA in a Chevrette  Drive don't fly.

With all the aircraft that have had problems and now a short of air traffic controllers, who in their right mind would still travel by air?

Not so sure about the Chevette -- rent a mini van or travel trailer. Travel trailers are about $200/night but you don't need to fork over $$ for hotel rooms.  Renting a mini van is a bit cheaper -- get one with extra seats so you can stretch out and someone can nap along the way.

IMO less hassle to rent and drive then waiting in line at the airport, dealing with the holiday crowds, hurrying to your connecting  flight, dealing with luggage and likely you're going to need to rent a vehicle anyways.